The Audi A4 Cabriolet (B7 8H) 3.2 FSI V6 quattro, produced between 2005 and 2008, represented the performance pinnacle of the B7 A4 Cabriolet range. Positioned as the premium offering, it combined a potent naturally aspirated V6 engine with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed manual transmission. This variant aimed to deliver an engaging open-top driving experience with a significant power upgrade over the more common four-cylinder models. It was part of the B7 generation (2004-2008) of the A4, which itself was based on the Volkswagen Group’s PL45 ‘PQ46’ platform, also known as the 1HX0 platform for the A4.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A4 |
| Generation | A4 Cabriolet (B7 8H) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 FSI V6 (255 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.1 l/100 km (14.6 US mpg, 17.5 UK mpg, 6.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg, 25.9 UK mpg, 9.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 262 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 150.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 194.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 255 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 3250 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AUK, BKH |
| Engine displacement | 3123 cm3 (190.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1695 kg (3736.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 246 l (8.69 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 315 l (11.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4573 mm (180.04 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Height | 1391 mm (54.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1518 mm (59.76 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A4 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI quattro is the AUK or BKH engine code, a 3.2-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes Audi’s FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) direct injection technology, which allows for precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its high-revving nature and power output. The 3.2 FSI V6 produces 255 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque at 3250 rpm. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, providing precise gear changes and enhancing the driving experience. The quattro all-wheel-drive system employs a Torsen center differential, distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed, providing excellent traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.2 FSI V6 quattro offered a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the base A4 Cabriolet models. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 6.5 seconds, and the car felt responsive and eager to rev. The manual transmission allowed for full control over the engine’s power, while the quattro system provided confident handling and stability, particularly on wet or slippery surfaces. The gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, providing strong acceleration in all gears. While not as fuel-efficient as the smaller-displacement engines, the 3.2 FSI V6 delivered a satisfying blend of performance and refinement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.2 FSI quattro typically came well-equipped as the top-of-the-line A4 Cabriolet. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included navigation system, heated front seats, and a wind deflector to reduce turbulence in the cabin with the top down. Interior trim options typically included wood or aluminum accents. The overall interior design was typical of Audi at the time – functional, well-built, and with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The A4 Cabriolet’s chassis featured an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The 3.2 FSI quattro models typically had slightly stiffer suspension components compared to the base models to better manage the increased power. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The braking system provided ample stopping power and good pedal feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A4 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, engaging driving dynamics, and luxurious interior. However, its relatively high price and fuel consumption were noted as potential drawbacks. Compared to the 1.8T and 2.0T models, the 3.2 FSI offered a significant performance advantage but came at a premium. The 3.2 FSI was also more complex and potentially more expensive to maintain than the turbocharged four-cylinder engines.
Legacy
The A4 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI quattro remains a desirable used car today, particularly for enthusiasts seeking a performance-oriented open-top experience. The 3.2 FSI V6 engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. Like many European cars of this era, preventative maintenance, especially regarding cooling system components, is essential to avoid costly repairs. The quattro all-wheel-drive system continues to be a valuable asset, providing enhanced traction and safety in all weather conditions. The B7 A4 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI quattro represents a sweet spot in the A4 lineage, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and open-air enjoyment.
